Transit-Oriented Development

People-oriented and transit-oriented places are design concepts as old as cities themselves, design concepts that have drawn new attention in recent years. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in its modern interpretation means pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use communities that encourage residents and workers to drive their cars less and use other options, such as transit, more. TODs provide relief from completely automobile-dependent lifestyles. They attract people of all ages, incomes and abilities because they simplify life and give people a strong sense of community. Most importantly, TODs provide people with options so they can choose where to live, work, play and mingle.

DRCOG has been facilitating discussion about TODs in the Denver region for some time. After FasTracks was passed by voters, DRCOG went to work assembling resources for its members to consider, holding meetings and workshops for developers and planners, and developing online forums to draw more people into the conversation about what TOD in different communities should include. Convening a group of public, private and community partners to engage in the Sustainable Communities Initiative, DRCOG was awarded a $4.5 million grant from the federal government to help make the most of investment around rail lines being built as part of FasTracks.

Many opportunities exist for residents of the Denver area to become better acquainted with TODs in our area.

Improve mobility choices for people of all ages, incomes and abilities